There’s an abundance of information involved in any real estate deal, so it’s important that your agent is able to effectively communicate, explain the details of the process and answer any questions you may have. Ideally, you should be able to communicate on the same level and fully understand all the information that’s being presented to you.
Experience is also an important factor to consider when hiring a real estate agent. Relatively new agents may bring enthusiasm and other positive attributes, but if they haven’t completed at least 30 deals, they should be working closely with a veteran agent.
A quality real estate agent will be able to show you the market value of similar homes in your area. Photo: Howard Bloom Realtor – Intero Real Estate Services (2011)
Here are some more tips for choosing a real estate agent:
- Closely examine any acronyms following an agent’s (or agency’s) name to determine their specialties. Some common ones are: ABR (Accredited Buyer Representative), CLHMS (Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist), CRP (Certified Relocation Professional), CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) and SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist).
- If you’re selling a property, find out how the real estate agent will determine the price. You can even ask for a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis), which shows the market values of similar homes in your specific area.
- Look for a company that can adjust its business approach to meet your individual needs and help facilitate the home buying and selling process. Ask if the company can provide valuable tools like information on 10-31 exchanges, market analysis reports or consultations with trade professionals.
- Make sure the real estate agent will stay in close contact with you throughout the buying or selling process, even after the deal has been completed. That way, you’ll be aware of any complications or issues before they become unmanageable.
To find a Diamond Certified real estate company in your area, click on one of the links below.
Alameda County: www.diamondcertified.info/alameda-real-estate-exchange-reverse-exchange-services
Contra Costa County: www.diamondcertified.info/contra-costa-real-estate-brokers
Marin County: www.diamondcertified.info/marin-real-estate-brokers
San Francisco: www.diamondcertified.info/san-francisco-real-estate-brokers
San Mateo County: www.diamondcertified.info/san-mateo-real-estate-sales-agent, www.diamondcertified.info/san-mateo-real-estate-brokers
Santa Clara County: www.diamondcertified.info/santa-clara-real-estate-sales-agents
Santa Cruz County: www.diamondcertified.info/santa-cruz-real-estate-brokers
Sonoma County: www.diamondcertified.info/sonoma-real-estate-brokers